Wednesday, July 01, 2009 | Around Town, Uncategorized
When your skin looks good, you feel good about yourself. Skin conditions like stretch marks and cellulite are not only unsightly, but they can be disheartening as well. While there is no surefire remedy, there are several treatments on the market that can reduce the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. After all, dimples are for the cheeks on your face!
The most common concern regarding stretch marks and cellulite is that people simply want to get rid of them—permanently. The use of retinol can help keep these body conditions in check, improving the overall texture of the skin, leaving it soft and smooth. However, as with any cosmetic procedure or treatment, your expectations should be realistic. Also, the color of stretch marks and the size of cellulite pockets can change over time, so the earlier you begin treatment, the better the results.
Changing your lifestyle habits (i.e. diet, exercise and sleep patterns) have little impact on stretch marks, but when it comes to cellulite, quality of life is key. Treating cellulite involves targeting the source, or often sources, of the subcutaneous irregularity. Topical body products that stimulate collagen production can provide relief by rebuilding the skin’s weakened support system, but exercise (that elevates the heart rate for 30 minutes a day) with a calorie-restricted diet (low-sugar, low-fat; high-fiber) is by far the best treatment. This not only helps firm the skin, but also increases blood flow to problem areas. Proper water intake (8-10 glasses a day) also helps by flushing toxins that can cause internal inflammation.
Body Conditions Defined
Stretch Marks – A form of scarring that occurs on the skin and has a white or reddish tint. When the dermis tears due to loss of elasticity and collagen, such scars can appear. Stretch marks also occur when the skin is stretched at a rapid pace (i.e. puberty, weight gain or pregnancy).
Cellulite – The accumulation of fat that presses against the connective tissues underneath a person’s skin, causing a bumpy or cottage cheese-like effect. Genetics, hormones and/or diet serve as the root of the problem.
Skin Pigmentation – Conditions that cause the skin to appear blotchy and lighter (hypopigmentation) or darker (hyperpigmentation) than normal due to an imbalance of melanin, the pigment that determines hair, skin and eye color. Skin pigmentation disorders are caused by varying factors, including sun exposure, allergic reactions and genetics.
Sun Damage – Often the price we pay for tanning, sun damage occurs when the skin is overly exposed to the sun’s intense UV rays. While some effects are immediately visible (i.e. sunburns and suntans), others appear over time in the form of unsightly wrinkles and liver spots. Excessive and repeated sun exposure can permanently damage skin cell DNA, resulting in skin cancer.
Keep your skin healthy and radiant with the Pür Minerals Skin Care Collection.